What are the differences between
Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D?
Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance), is managed by the government, and helps cover in-patient hospital and skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and home health care, usually for no monthly premium.
Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance), is managed by the government, and helps cover doctors' services and outpatient care such as lab tests, medical equipment, and even some preventative care, for a monthly premium.
Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage Plans), is offered by government-approved private insurance companies and provides an alternative option. It combines Parts A and B. Some plans also include Part D coverage (MAPD plans) and some do not (MA plans). Costs vary by plan.
Medicare Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage), is offered by government-approved private insurance companies, and helps cover prescription drugs. This coverage is available as a prescription drug plan (PDP) if you have an Original Medicare Plan and is included in some Medicare Advantage plans (MAPD). Costs vary by plan and can be estimated using our comparison tool.
Read more Medicare Part D information.